System requirements

The console runs in a web browser and needs nothing installed. This article lists what it depends on so you can rule out your setup before you connect.

Browsers

Use an up-to-date version of one of these:

• Google Chrome
• Microsoft Edge
• Mozilla Firefox
• Apple Safari, on macOS and iOS

The console relies on web audio and WebRTC. If your browser lacks them it shows This browser is not supported. You can dismiss the message and continue, but audio and the station connection may not work.

Some integrations need a particular browser. Devices that connect straight to the browser, such as a FlexControl knob or a CTR2-MIDI controller, use Web Serial and Web MIDI, which Safari does not provide. See LocalMate and integrations.

HTTPS and the microphone

Browsers only allow microphone access on secure pages. Always open the console from https://my.remotehamradio.com/console. The first time you set up audio, the browser asks for permission to use your microphone; the Audio Setup Wizard walks you through allowing it in each browser.

Network

• Wired is best. Receive audio, transmit audio and the waterfall are all real time. A wired Ethernet connection gives the steadiest results. Wi-Fi works, but a weak signal shows up as choppy audio.
• Latency matters more than bandwidth. While connected, the console shows the round-trip time to the station and whether the path is Direct (P2P) or Relayed (TURN). See Connection problems if audio breaks up.
• VPNs and strict firewalls can force the audio through a relay or block it. Try without them if you have trouble.

Phones and tablets

The console works on phones and tablets in Safari or Chrome, with a tab bar instead of the desktop layout and an on-screen PTT button. See Using a phone or tablet.

Audio hardware

Any microphone and speakers or headset your computer can use will work; the console lets you choose which device to use for each. A headset avoids the speakers feeding your microphone. CW and digital modes need no microphone at all, and you can connect with Connect (No Mic).

LocalMate

LocalMate is optional. It links programs on your computer, such as WSJT-X or N1MM+, to the console. It runs on:

• macOS 12 or later, as a universal app for Apple silicon and Intel Macs
• Windows 10 or later, 64-bit

There is no Linux version. LocalMate needs internet access the first time it starts, to fetch its certificate.